Red Sea Access Key to Ethiopia’s National Interest and Development: General Yimer

Addis Ababa, March 10, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s aspiration to secure access to the Red Sea and maritime outlets is closely tied to the country’s sovereignty, survival, and national interest, General Yimer Mekonnen, Head of the Education and Training Main Department, said.

Speaking at a national symposium organized by the National Ethiopian Army Association in support of the government’s stance on Red Sea and maritime access, General Yimer stressed that Ethiopia’s historical connection to the Red Sea dates back to ancient times.

He noted that during the Axumite civilization, ports such as Adulis and Zeila served as vital gateways for trade and international engagement, demonstrating Ethiopia’s longstanding maritime heritage.

According to the general, Ethiopia’s pursuit of Red Sea and maritime access should therefore not be viewed as a recent political ambition but rather as a historical right intrinsically linked to the country’s sovereignty.

He added that respecting Ethiopia’s right to utilize Red Sea ports and maritime routes would help accelerate national development and strengthen the country’s economic linkages with regional and global markets.

Also addressing the symposium, Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director-General for External Relations and Cooperation at the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), said that although several countries around the world are landlocked, Ethiopia’s situation is unique due to historical circumstances that distanced the country from the Red Sea and direct maritime access.

According to him, historical adversaries orchestrated circumstances that ultimately detached Ethiopia from its natural maritime outlet, leaving the country without direct access to the sea.

Despite this situation, Major General Teshome emphasized that Ethiopia remains committed to pursuing the restoration of its maritime access through peaceful means.

He added that ongoing efforts aimed at restoring Ethiopia’s maritime access will continue through diplomacy, cooperation, and sustained national commitment.

For his part, Sergeant Birhanu Amare, President of the National Ethiopian Army Association, stressed that matters concerning the nation and its strategic interests transcend political differences.

He said members of the association have historically taken a leading role in national affairs and remain committed to safeguarding Ethiopia’s strategic interests.

The president noted that when it comes to issues of national interest—particularly Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access—veterans stand firmly alongside the government.

“When the call of the motherland is heard, we always stand with the government,” he said, underscoring the importance of national unity in advancing Ethiopia’s legitimate aspirations.

Sergeant Birhanu further stated that the association supports the government’s efforts to secure Ethiopia’s maritime access and engagement with the Red Sea through peaceful and diplomatic means.

He also affirmed the association’s support for the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, noting that veterans remain ready to stand with the government in safeguarding Ethiopia’s national interests.

The symposium brought together members of the National Ethiopian Army Association from across the country, who reiterated their commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s strategic objectives and protecting the nation’s national interests.